Valencia

I spent 8 days in Valencia with my boyfriend for new years. We really enjoyed it honestly. We found the city quite walkable, even though it's relatively big, very bike-friendly, felt super safe riding around. Didn't find the public transport to be bad at all, but then again we come from a capital with much shittier public transport. Food is affordable, there's tons of cafes and restaurants everywhere (they were constantly full though). My biggest issue was that barely anyone speaks any English, but from my understanding this is an issue in most of Spain. If you're looking to move there also remember there's no central heating in most buildings, so if it's winter time, it's gonna be cold. People use small radiators for the most part, but obviously that only makes a difference if it's kept on for hours in one room. Overall though, I really enjoyed the city, it was peaceful yet lively.

Prices have gone up, so living in the center is not that cheap anymore. Another thing: low-quality tourism has grown uncontrollably in the past few years due to lack of planning from the City, becoming a true nuisance for locals, especially in downtown. The city feels overcrowded and noisy, too much for its size and population--yes, it is a big village, not a buzzing city. Other than that, the weather is generally quite good, and although public transportation is bad, you can move around pretty easily. Not and "absolute gem" by any means (architecture is horrible other than in the center), but livable.

Staying in Valencia is relatively cheap, but I must admit that it's a bit boring here too. If you're looking for a place where to get some stuff done - this might be it, but I'm not coming back.

I totally second the review that said "It's more of a big village than a buzzing city".

I'm Irish and found it a to be a great city, What more can I say ;) Has las Fallas too which is quite frankly one of the most amazing festivals in the world.

I'm an American expat living in Valencia with my wife and 2 children for the past 6 months and I feel like this is the most underrated city in Europe. Hoping the word doesn't get out because this place is an absolute gem.

Been here for 3 months now. Have lived in several cities around the world and can say Valencia has provided the best quality of life. It has everything - a massive beach, a wonderful park that runs through the city, tons of great bars, cafes and restaurants, and a decent nightlife too. It's also cheaper and less touristy vs Madrid and Barcelona. And if you live near the center (which is possible due to lower rents), you can walk or bike everywhere. There are lots of bike paths and the metro is far nicer than London's. My bet is that it will become really popular with nomads very soon. If you come, explore Ruzafa, a hip, central area filled with great cafes for working.

Beautiful city with happy and very open-minded people. Almost every time I go out I see at least one gay couple holding hands or kissing in the center, on the beaches. I think the 'gay friendly' score could easily be 'great'.

Best city in Spain in terms of value for money. City has a very nice city center and great beaches. Perfect city to live well and get lots of work done. Don't go there if you're looking for a party city or historical sight seeing (It's more of a big village than a buzzing city).